Fantasy on a Theme of Johann Pachelbel (1985)

Thomas Åberg (b. 1952) — Fantasy on a Theme of Johann Pachelbel (1985) for organ

“Fantasy on a Theme of Johann Pachelbel” (1985) is dedicated to the Swedish organist and composer Michael Waldenby. The work is a free fantasia on a theme by Johann Pachelbel (an arioso with a rising bass line; not the famous “canon” theme). This theme is developed along with Åberg’s original material across several contrasting sections, finally culminating in an expressive arioso with a long-flowing melody over the rising chords.

Thomas Åberg (b. 1952) was born in Stockholm, Sweden and works there as composer and concert organist. Most of his works are written for the organ and are often characterized by their rhythmic joy, simplicity, and humor. He has stated that “music must bring enjoyment, without abandoning reverence,” and as such his style often uses the most basic of musical materials to create a discourse that is both spiritual and visceral. Åberg’s music speaks with a distinctly Swedish voice and emotional aesthetic, and since the early 1980s his works have become an important part of the Scandinavian organ literature. His music has been performed by organists at festivals throughout Europe, Asia, and the USA. He also tours regularly worldwide as concert organist with his own works. In December 2012, Carson Cooman released a CD (Legends in the Garden) devoted to Åberg’s organ compositions and has also recorded more than 70 other Åberg works for YouTube.

Published by Svensk Musik (SMIC) (https://www.svenskmusik.org/en)